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ust over a year ago, in May 2024, the Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology at Albizu University’s Mayagüez University Center reached a historic milestone: becoming the first in Puerto Rico’s western region to earn accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA). Since then, the impact on students, faculty, and the community has been transformative.
“For the first time, our residents have access to a doctoral program in clinical psychology that meets the highest standards of quality and excellence recognized internationally,” said Dr. Minoshka Liquet, director of the program. This accreditation has allowed students from the western region and nearby areas to pursue a top-tier doctoral education without having to relocate, while also opening doors to internships, residencies, and licensure opportunities both locally and internationally.
“The key to this achievement has been the commitment of our entire faculty and all of our students.”
The APA program accreditation was the result of an intense process of self-study and continuous improvement, which involved reviewing the curriculum, strengthening students’ clinical, ethical, and cultural competencies, formalizing assessment procedures, and expanding practical training opportunities. The faculty’s professional development was also enhanced, along with more robust systems for academic governance and data collection. “The key to this achievement has been the commitment of our entire faculty and all of our students. It has been a collective effort,” Liquet added.
The achievement has increased interest from new applicants and from professionals seeking to join the program as clinical supervisors. At the same time, the community has reinforced its trust in the psychological services the program provides, both through its community clinic and outreach to populations with limited access to care.
“It has been a collective effort.”
The program remains deeply committed to addressing the region’s mental health needs through partnerships with hospitals, schools, government agencies, and community organizations. Its research and outreach projects address issues such as natural disasters, migration, violence, and mental health in marginalized communities. Looking ahead, the program aims not only to maintain the accreditation through ongoing evaluation and feedback, but also to position itself as a center of excellence in multicultural clinical psychology, expanding international partnerships and diversifying its academic offerings to include specialized certifications and continuing education.
